Types Of Calcium Oxalate Crystals Research Articles

Morphoanatomical study of the Sechium edule (Jacq.) Sw. (cucurbitaceae) fruit due to its potential usefulness in industrial processes

In Colombia, studies have begun on the potentiality of fruits Sechium edule (Jacq.) Sw., as a plant matrix to design new food items. Therefore, it is necessary to develop tools allowing analysis of the structural changes resulting in the transformation processes of this matrix. We conducted a study on the morphoanatomical and histochemical characteristics of the S. edule, fruit smooth-light green varietal. This fruit morphology is proper varietal, but a wide weight variation was determined due to its size variation. The external fruit parts exhibit annular collenchyma in the subepidermal tissues. The middle part of the fruit is characterized by chlorenchyma, and reserve parenchyma with simple and semi-compound amyloplasts. Different types of calcium oxalate crystals are observed. Fruit tissues have abundant compounds such as inulin, pectins, starch and mucilage, that make this species a promising one for the production of functional foods.

Calcium oxalate crystal macropattern and its usefulness in the taxonomy of Baccharis (Asteraceae).

This study provides a comprehensive account of the various types of calcium oxalate crystals found in the genus Baccharis and assesses the exceptional value of crystal macropatterns for the taxonomy of the genus. The morphotype, occurrence, and chemical composition of the crystals found in the stems and leaves are studied. The 44 species included in this study were selected based on a broad phylogeny-based sampling covering seven subgenera and 31 sections. These species were chosen to represent all the main phylogenetic lineages of Baccharis; thus, the sampling also represents a comprehensive coverage concerning evolutionary significance for such a large and environmentally and economically important plant group. The samples were analyzed by light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Several morphotypes of crystals, including druses, crystal sand, styloids and prisms, were present. Based on their chemical composition, the crystals were classified as pure calcium oxalate, mixtures of oxalates and sulfates, and mixtures of oxalates, sulfates, and silica. The crystal macropatterns observed in this study aid in species identification and provide novel data for the taxonomy of Baccharis. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Most species of Baccharis have a specific crystalline pattern. Each species produces a crystal morphotype or a set of morphotypes specific to it. The crystals observed are formed by calcium oxalate.

Microscopic investigations of Ocotea paranaensis-A Brazilian endemic and endangered species.

This article describes the morpho-anatomies of the leaves and stems of Ocotea paranaensis Brotto, Baitello, Cervi & Santos (Lauraceae) using light and scanning electron microscopy. The main anatomical features characterizing the species are the presence of simple non-glandular trichomes in the leaves and stems, large secretory cells in the leaves, flat-convex petioles with two small lateral ribs, brachysclereids in the stem cortex and pith, and the presence of starch grains and various types of calcium oxalate crystals in the pith. Histochemical tests indicated the presence of lignin in stone cells, fibers, and xylem. Lipophilic contents were found in the secretory cells. Phenolic compounds were detected in the epidermis, hypodermis, phloem, and xylem. The present study's findings can contribute to the taxonomy and authentication of O. paranaensis. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: This article is the first morpho-anatomical study of Ocotea paranaensis. Anatomy and histochemistry of the leaves and stems were studied by light microscopy, FESEM and EDS. The findings of this study would aid in the species identification and taxonomy.

Microscopic characterization of five Artemisia crude herbs using light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and microscopic quantitative analysis.

Artemisia annua, Artemisia argyi, Artemisia absinthium, Artemisia leucophylla and Artemisia lavandulaefolia are five herbal species of Artemisia usually misidentified, adulterated or substituted in commerce. Using light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and microscopic quantitative analysis, the transverse sections, morphological, powder and quantitative microscopic features of glandular trichome density and area were observed for correct authentication. The results indicated that microscopic characteristics such as the distribution of fiber bundles in the vascular bundle of the main vein, the shape of xylem, the density and type of non-glandular trichomes, the morphology of T-shaped non-glandular trichomes, the type of calcium oxalate crystals, and the number and size of glandular trichomes can be used to authenticate the five Artemisia crude herbs. Differences in the morphology and density of glandular and non-glandular trichomes are key features for the identification of five Artemisia species. Therefore, our study provides a more comprehensive microscopic identification diagram and additional microscopic evidence for the five Artemisia species. HIGHLIGHTS: This study provides a more comprehensive microscopic identification diagram and statistical information on the glandular trichome density and area for accurate authentication of five Artemisia herbs using light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and microscopic quantitative analysis.

Assessment of Paronychia Argentea Extraction on Kidney Stone by Using Calcium Oxalate Method

Urinary calculi are stones (urolithiasis) that can form anywhere in urinary tract outside of the kidneys and mostly composed of calcium oxalate and phosphate, additionally with elevated throughout the last two decades in the world. Chemical composition plays a major part in nephrolithiasis. Therefore, the high concentrations of lithogenic substances in urine enhance the crystallization method in urine tract system. The most kidney stones form from calcium oxalate, the present study was inspected the effect of the crude aqueous extract as well as the fractionated methanol extract (ethyl acetate, isopropanol, acetone and methanol residue) of paronychia argentea on the crystallization of calcium oxalate salts. The effect of aqueous extract and fractionated methanol extract on the size, number, type of calcium oxalate crystals. Paronychia argentea both the crude aqueous and the fractionated extract, especially ethyl acetate fraction have antiurolithic activity via reducing crystal size as well as activate the formation of calcium oxalate dihydrate (COD) crystals out from calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) with increasing concentration of extract. The shifting of crystallization process to producing calcium oxalate dihydrate (COD) rather than oxalate monohydrate (COM) and the reducing the crystal size and calcium ion concentration, in addition to the diuretic action of extract plays an important role in controlling urolithiasis.

Comparative micro-anatomical investigation of genus Heliotropium (Boraginaceae) found in Turkey

The genus Heliotropium L., belonging to family Boraginaceae in Turkey comprises 16 species. The species of this genus occur in a diverse range of environments. In this investigation, we describe and compare the leaf and stem anatomy in seven Turkish Heliotropium (H) taxa, the species are H. bovei Boiss., H. dolosum De Not., H. myosotoides Banks & Sol., H. haussknechtii Vatke., H. samoliflorum Bunge subsp. erzurumicum Donmez., H. suaveolens M. Bieb., and H. thermophilum Kit Tan, A.Çelik & Gemici., using standard protocol for light microscopy. Three of these seven investigated species i.e., H. thermophilum, H. haussknechtii, and H. samoliflorum subsp. erzurumicum are endemic to Turkey. This is first investigation of most of these species and little is known about the vegetative anatomy in these taxa. Leaf and stem characters described here related to epidermis, cuticle, indumentum, crystals, stomata, mesophyll, papillae and vascular system. Findings have shown that epidermal cells number, stomatal size, number of layers of hypodermis, collenchyma, cortex cells, palisade and spongy layers, number of subsidiary cells, shape and structure of crystals, and trichomes are of taxonomic value for this genus, and are valuable for species identification. Nearly all species have single layer epidermis. Three types of calcium oxalate crystals: styloids, druses, crystals sands were observed in stems and leaves of these species. Leaves are amphistomatic and anomocytic stomata type were observed in all species. Although the investigated specimens represent a limited range of taxa, the results of this study highlight the importance of stem and leaf anatomical features in assessing the taxonomic similarities between Heliotropium species.

Anatomía foliar de cuatro especies halófilas del noroeste argentino

Las hojas de las plantas halófilas desarrollan estrategias para afrontar las con- diciones adversas de los ambientes salinos. El objetivo de este trabajo fue caracte- rizar la anatomía foliar de Atriplex argentina, Alternanthera nodifera, Ehretia cortesia y Trianthema argentina, especies halófilas del noroeste argentino. Hojas de las especies mencionadas fueron colectadas en las Salinas Grandes (provincia de Catamarca) y Aimogasta (provincia de La Rioja). Se aplicaron técnicas histológicas convencionales. E. cortesía, A. argentina y T. argentina presentaron tricomas glandulares y A. nodifera eglandulares. Los estomas de E. cortesía y A. nodífera se encontraron hundidos. Se observó mesofilo isolateral en E. cortesía y mesofilo con estructura Kranz en A. argentina, A. nodífera y T. argentina. A. argentina, A. nodífera y E. cortesia presentaron parénquima acuífero. Todas las especies evidenciaron abundantes y diversos tipos de cristales de oxalato de calcio en mesofilo y en caso de E. cortesia presentó además cristales de carbonato de calcio en glándulas de sal. El trabajo describe por primera vez la anatomía foliar de estas especies y contribuye al conocimiento de las adapta- ciones anatómicas de la vegetación halófila del noroeste de Argentina.

Biomineralization of Calcium Oxalate Crystals in Leaves of (L.) Schott (Araceae) in Colocasia esculenta Response to Herbivory and Water Regime

Calcium oxalate crystals are common constituents of plant tissues and are believed to play a role in protection against herbivory, calcium regulation and even heavy metal sequestration. In this study, calcium oxalate crystals in leaves of Colocasia esculenta were studied in order to elucidate the biomineralization process of these inorganic components in response to herbivory and different water regimes. Different crystal types occurring in the leaves of C. esculenta were identified, described and quantified in terms of density and distribution. Two general types of calcium oxalate crystals were found, namely: the raphides and druses. The raphides were of two types, the defensive and non- defensive, and both occurred as bundles of elongated crystals enclosed in specialized cells called idioblasts. Druses were spherical conglomerate crystals extensively distributed throughout the leaf. Although degree of herbivory did not significantly affect overall density of calcium oxalate crystals, there was a highly significant interaction effect between herbivory and crystal type. With increasing degree of herbivory from 10% to 30%, the density of druses and non-defensive raphides decreased significantly but that of the defensive type increased. Water availability had a highly significant effect on overall crystal density. Interaction effect between water regime and crystal type was also highly significant. Density of druses significantly increased under waterlogged than non-waterlogged conditions while those of the defensive and non-defensive raphides were unaffected.

Occurrence, type and location of calcium oxalate crystals in selected medicinal plants

Crystals in selected medical plants growing naturally in Place palayam reserve forest, Thiruvallur District were studied with Polarised light microscope. Four types of crystals were observed: druses, prismatics, raphide and rosettes crystal. Druses more in cortical parenchyma and ground parenchyma cells in the stem & petiole region. In contrast prismatic, raphide and rosettes present in cortical, ground, axial and phloem parenchyma in the roots and stems. The Preliminary results show the presence of four types of calcium oxalate crystals in the stems, Petiole & roots of 10 Species: Achyranthes aspera, Aerva lanata, Atalantia monophylla, Bridelia Crenulata presence of Druses crystal, Plumeria rubra, Adhatoda zeylanica presence of prismatic crystal, Asparagus racemosus, Monochoria vaginalis presence of raphide crystal and Carica papaya and Carissa spinarum presence of rosette type of crystal. These observations indicate that there is relationship between the distribution of calcium oxalate crystals and the medicinal parts of the plant and supports the view that the presence of calcium oxalate crystals may relate to the adulterants.

Pharmacognostical Evaluation of Arjuna Flowers

Introduction: Terminalia arjuna (Roxb. ex DC.) Wight & Arn., known as Arjuna, is an important medicinal plant used in Ayurvedic and traditional systems of medicine. This plant is being used to cure various ailments in India for several years. According to Pushpaayurvedah written by Priya Vrat Sharma, Arjuna flowers are used as one of the chief ingredient in some Ayurvedic formulations, which are used for preventing of baldness and graying of hairs, i.e., Mahanila taila, Nilabindu taila, kasmaryadi taila, Ketakyadi taila. It is also useful in Helminthiasis (Krimiroga), raktapitta (internal hemorrhage), and for some poisons. Though many therapeutics uses have been prescribed in Ayurveda for Arjuna flowers in addition to the other parts, no work has been carried out on flower part. Hence, the present study has been attempted for the first time. Physicochemical analysis, such as loss on drying, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, and different extractive values and preliminary phytochemical screening for various groups of secondary metabolites has been carried out as per standard protocols. Aim: The present study was carried out to establish pharma- cognostical standards and important identification/diagnostic characteristics for identification of Terminalia arjuna flowers. Materials and methods: Flower material was collected from its natural habitat in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, and authenticated by subject expert, Regional Ayurveda Research Institute for Metabolic Disorders, Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India. The flowers were shade dried, powdered, and used for tests. The macro-, microscopical, physicochemical, and preliminary phytochemical studies have been carried out by adopting standard methods. Results: The microscopic characteristics of the flowers showed the presence of abundant combretaceous-type trichomes, rosette and clustered type of calcium oxalate crystals, reddish orange tannin content, resin ducts, endothecium cells, and abundant rounded pollen grains in three colporate and in monads. Preliminary phytochemical screening showed the presence of carbohydrates, phenols, proteins, saponins, and tannins. Conclusion: The macro-, microscopical, powder studies, and preliminary phytochemical investigations of T. arjuna flowers may be used to establish the botanical standards for identification and standardization of T. arjuna flowers.

Colleters in 10 species belonging to three tribes of Rubiaceae: morphoanatomical diversity and potential as useful characters for taxonomy

Colleters are common secretory structures in Rubiaceae. In this study, we describe colleter morphoanatomy and histochemistry in 10 species belonging to Chiococceae, Coussareae, and Psychotrieae tribes of Rubiaceae. Colleter morphoanatomy was analyzed by light and scanning electron microscopy. Microscopy analysis revealed that colleters were present on the stipule adaxial surface in all species. In the case of Palicourea marcgravii A.St.-Hil. and Chiococca alba Hitchc., colleters were also found on leaf primordia and at the stipule apex, respectively. Colleters were classified into three types: standard, bifurcated standard, and reduced standard. Further analysis showed that colleter epidermal cells are thin-walled and possess a thin cuticle, conspicuous nuclei located at the equatorial or basal region, and abundant cytoplasm. Intercellular spaces were found among epidermal cells in Chiococca alba, Coussarea triflora Müll.Arg., Coussarea verticillata Müll.Arg., Psychotria conjungens Müll.Arg., and Psychotria sessilis Vell. Crystalliferous idioblasts containing raphides were observed in the colleter central parenchymatous axis of all species, while crystal sand was found only in Chiococca alba. Histochemical tests revealed that colleter secretion is composed of a mixture of mucilage and protein. We conclude that colleter position, typological variation, presence of vascularization, and type of calcium oxalate crystals represent promising characters for future taxonomic and phylogenetic studies in Rubiaceae.

Raphides in Food ? An Unsafe Menu

Calcium oxalate in plant bodies lead to stones in kidney, upon consumption. Calcium oxalate is frequently found in plants in the form of tiny needle like raphides. Out of the 5 types of calcium oxalate crystals, raphides are the predominant ones. Calcium oxalate gets incorporated in our body through plant derived food that contains them; a little amount of them is also synthesized in humans endogenously. Both the sources contribute to kidney problems. Occurrence of calcium oxalate is not limited to higher plants only but also extends to algae, fungi and lichens. Out of all the 3 forms of calcium oxalate, monohydrate form is the one widely reported to cause kidney problems. In this study, we review raphides and explore their possible remediation in order to utilize plants of food and medicinal importance the better way. We also review traditional knowledge of raphide neutralization and point to the methods of removal of calcium oxalate and raphides.

Application of anatomy and HPTLC in characterizing species of Dioscorea (Dioscoreaceae).

The edible tubers from different species of Dioscorea are a major source of food and nutrition for millions of people. Some of the species are medicinally important but others are toxic. The genus consists of about 630 species of almost wholly dioecious plants, many of them poorly characterized. The taxonomy of Dioscorea is confusing and identification of the species is generally problematic. There are no adequate anatomical studies available for most of the species. This study is aimed to fill this gap and provides a detailed investigation of the anatomy and micro-morphology of the rhizomes and tubers of five different species of Dioscorea, namely D. balcanica, D. bulbifera, D. polystachya, D. rotundata and D. villosa. The primary features that can help in distinguishing the species include the nature of periderm, presence or absence of pericyclic sclereids, lignification in the phloem, types of calcium oxalate crystals and features of starch grains. The descriptions are supported with images of bright-field and scanning electron microscopy for better understanding of these species. The diagnostic key of anatomical features included in this paper can help distinguish the investigated species unambiguously. Additionally, HPTLC analyses of authentic and commercial samples of the five species are described.

Pharmacognostical studies on the fruit of Elaeocarpus oblongus Gaertn

Elaeocarpus tectorius (Lour.) Poir, Synonym: Elaeocarpus oblongus auct. non Gaertn. Elaeocarpaceae, is a tree, found throughout Western Ghats, South India. The present study indented to establish the pharmacognostical and physicochemical quality control parameters of E.oblongus fruits to avoid confusion in taxonomic identification. Physicochemical evaluation of fruit was carried out according to the guidelines of WHO/QCMMP and Indian Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia. The elemental analysis was done by using Perkin Elmer 5000 an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Non glandular unicellular trichomes found to be distinguished character of powder analysis. It was quantified to be 700 µm long and 400 µm thick at the base. Lerachysclereids were found plenty in powder. The rosettes type of calcium oxalate crystals were 15 µm in diameter. Cells of the endosperm showing darkly stained globular bodies and the cotyledon is 170 µm thick. Physio-chemical parameters such as total ash and acid-insoluble ash (2.66% w/w, 0.66% w/w, respectively), extractive values (aqueous 31.068% w/w and alcoholic 30.94% w/w), foreign organic matter (0.5% w/w) and loss on drying (12% w/w) were estimated. Qualitative analysis showed the presence of Fructose, Glucose, Flavanoids and Tannins and Sterols and Phenolic compounds and fatty acids in the fruit. The quantity of elements (µg/g) in the fruit pulp powder was estimated by elemental analysis. The result shows Mn-53.5 and Zn - 46.2 were the major contents. While Pd- 14.3, Cu- 7.5 and Cr- 4.9 were minor contents. This study provided the pharmacognostical profile used to differentiate the other similar looking fruit from other ones of this genus.

Occurrence, types and distribution of calcium oxalate crystals in leaves and stems of some species of poisonous plants.

BackgroundCalcium oxalate crystals, which are found in many organs of plants, have different morphological forms: as druses, prism, styloids, raphides and crystal sand. In this study, the distribution, type and specific location of calcium oxalate crystals in the leaves and stems of the eight species of poisonous plants and one species of nonpoisonous plant were investigated with light microscopy. During study special attention was given to the possible correlation between the presence and types of calcium oxalate crystals and toxic plant organs. The plants examined in this study were Hedera helix L. (Araliaceae), Aristolochia clematitis L. (Aristolochiaceae), Humulus lupulus L. (Cannabaceae), Saponaria officinalis L. (Caryophyllaceae), Chelidonium majus L. (Papaveraceae), Hypericum perforatum L. (Hypericaceae), Tribulus terrestris L. (Zygophyllaceae), Cynanchum acutum L. (Asclepiadaceae), and Nerium oleander L. (Apocynaceae).ResultsThree types of crystals: druses, prismatic crystals and crystal sands were observed. Druses were identified in the leaves and stems of six species of studied plants. In contrast to druses, crystal sands and prismatic crystals were rare. Prismatic crystals were observed in the leaf mesophlly cells of both Nerium oleander and Cynanchum acutum. However, crystal sands were observed only in the pith tissue of Humulus lupulus. On the other hand, leaves and stems of Chelidonium majus, Aristolochia clematitis and Hypericum perforatum were devoid of crystals.ConclusionThere is no absolute correlation between the presence and type of calcium oxalate crystals and toxic plant organs. However druse crystals may function as main irritant in toxic organs of the plants.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1186/1999-3110-55-32) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Pharmacognostical studies on the root bark and stem bark of Catunaregam spinosa (Thunb.) Tiruv. (Madanaphala) - an Ayurvedic drug

AIM. The aim of the study was to carry out pharmacognostical investigation and HPTLC profile of the root bark and stem bark of C. spinosa. METHODS. Root bark and stem bark were collected from Kalakkad. A few pieces were preserved in 70 % alcohol for pharmacognostical evaluation. The materials were powdered for phytochemical analysis and HPTLC was carried out on alcohol and aqueous extracts. RESULTS. The barks are identified by the presence of concentric layers of stone cells in secondary cortex and secondary phloem regions, rhomboidal type of calcium oxalate crystals in the stone cells (in root bark), fibres and presence of tanniniferous cell content in the secondary cortex and cork regions and uni to mutiseriate medullary rays. Phytochemical analysis revealed carbohydrates, glycosides, phytosterols, phenolic compounds, tannins and saponins in alcohol extract. Aqueous extract contained carbohydrates and glycosides, phenolic compounds, tannins, saponins, gums and mucilage. Petroleum ether extract contained phytosterols, fixed oils and fats. Acetone extract contained phytosterols, phenolic compounds and tannins. HPTLC confirmed the presence of Oleanolic acid glycoside in root bark. CONCLUSION. The pharmacognostical investigations help in the identification of the root bark and stem bark of C. spinosa.

Microstructural differences in Agave atrovirens Karw leaves and pine by age effect

We evaluated the effects of the leaves, “pine” or “head” (plants without leaves) age of Agave atrovirens on the epidermal, parenchyma and fibrillar microstructure as possible maturity indicators, since plant age is a determinant factor of the concentration of inulin. Samples were taken from three, six and nine year-old plants, and observations were made with scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy (LM). The results showed that the isolated cuticular membrane (ICM) microstructure in the agave plant changes considerably with the age, becoming harder and allowing the mature plant to avoid excessive water loss, on the other hand, the increased size of the suprastomal cavity makes the respiration process more efficient in older plants. The agaves present the three main types of calcium oxalate crystals reported for monocotyledons (druses, raphides and styloids). The plant age is an important factor in the identification of calcium oxalate crystals because it is only in six year-old plant that all three types were identified. However, the druses are present only in the cuticular membrane (CM), while the styloids and raphides are distributed on the parenchyma and chlorenchyma. The fibrillar structures in agave are modified with age such thatagave can support severe hydric stress and the storage of soluble carbohydrates. Key words: Crystals, calcium oxalate, fibrillar, druses, raphides, styloids.

A comparison of leaf crystal macropatterns in the two sister genera Piper and Peperomia (Piperaceae)

This is the first large-scale study comparing leaf crystal macropatterns of the species-rich sister genera Piper and Peperomia. It focuses on identifying types of calcium oxalate crystals and their macropatterns in leaves of both genera. The Piper results are placed in a phylogenetic context to show evolutionary patterns. This information will expand knowledge about crystals and provide specific examples to help study their form and function. One example is the first-time observation of Piper crystal sand tumbling in chlorenchyma vacuoles. Herbarium and fresh leaves were cleared of cytoplasmic content and examined with polarizing microscopy to identify types of crystals and their macropatterns. Selected hydrated herbarium and fresh leaf punches were processed for scanning electron microscopy and x-ray elemental analysis. Vibratome sections of living Piper and Peperomia leaves were observed for anatomical features and crystal movement. Both genera have different leaf anatomies. Piper displays four crystal types in chlorenchyma-crystal sand, raphides, styloids, and druses, whereas Peperomia displays three types-druses, raphides, and prisms. Because of different leaf anatomies and crystal types between the genera, macropatterns are completely different. Crystal macropattern evolution in both is characterized by increasing complexity, and both may use their crystals for light gathering and reflection for efficient photosynthesis under low-intensity light environments. Both genera have different leaf anatomies, types of crystals and crystal macropatterns. Based on Piper crystals associated with photosynthetic tissues and low-intensity light, further study of their function and association with surrounding chloroplasts is warranted, especially active crystal movement.

Pharmacognostic, Physicochemical and Phytochemical Investigation of Mangifera indica L. var. Kesar leaf

ObjectiveThe aim of the present study was to investigate the morphological and microscopical characters of Mangifera indica L. leaf collected from Gujarat region and its phytochemical and physicochemical analysis. MethodsMicroscopic characters and powder analysis was done under microscope. The physiochemical properties such as loss on drying, total ash value, acid insoluble ash value, water soluble ash value, pH, solubility and extractive values of M. indica were carried out. ResultsThe upper epidermis was irregular, wavy with thick epidermal layer; and prismatic, rosette and cluster types of calcium oxalate crystals were found. In phytochemical analysis, cardiac glycosides and tannins showed maximum amounts. ConclusionsThe present study provides pharmacognostical, physicochemical and phytochemical details of the M. indica leaf which are useful in laying down standardization and pharmacopoeia parameters.

Effect of indigenous plant extracts on calcium oxalate crystallization having a role in urolithiasis

Crystallization process has a major role in urolithiasis. In the present study, effect of two indigenous plants extracts namely Boerhavia diffusa and Bryophyllum pinnatum extract was determined on the crystallization of calcium oxalate crystals. Effect on the number, size and type of calcium oxalate crystals was observed. Results showed significant activity of both extracts against calcium oxalate crystallization at different concentrations (P < 0.05). Size of the crystals gradually reduced with the increasing concentration of both extracts. The number of calcium oxalate monohydrate crystals which are injurious to epithelial cells gradually reduced and at the highest concentration of extracts (100 mg/ml) completely disappeared (P < 0.05). These results confirm that B. diffusa and B. pinnatum extracts have antiurolithic activity and have the ability to reduce crystal size as well as to promote the formation of calcium oxalate dihydrate (COD) crystals rather than monohydrate (COM) crystals. Control of crystal size and formation of COD rather than COM crystals, in combination with the diuretic action of extracts is an important way to control urolithiasis.